Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Beauvais

Saint-Pierre cathedral would have been one of the largest buildings in the world, if it had been completed. The cathedral which abuts the Basse Œuvre - a rare example of a Carolingian cathedral - is an building of immense and astounding proportions.

As a result of a number of accidents, including the collapse of the 153 metre spire, in the 16th century, the building has been left without a nave. However, the cathedral's Gothic chancel, built in the 13th century, and which resembles a 48.5 m glass box under the vaults, alone embodies the essential characteristics of Gothic architecture.